Arti provides surgical support in Gaza
Ms Arti Garg is going to Gaza this weekend to provide medical support and surgical procedures to those in need. We caught up with her about her trip and what her first six months at Newham has been like.
What is your role at Newham?
I’ve been a locum surgical consultant in general and emergency surgery for six months. Before that I was senior laparoscopic colorectal fellow at The Royal London Hospital for 2.5 years.
There’s a huge variety of the surgical cases at Newham of mixed ethnic population both with acute and chronic conditions. The staff at Newham are very supportive and I think the infrastructure is great.
Where did you train?
I did my Masters in Surgery in India and then I came to London to do the rest of my qualifications (MRCS, FRCS).
London is where the action is! While I was at The Royal London I trained under Professor Shafi Ahmed.
Shafi is an amazing and the best surgical trainer. Through him I learned how to operate and how not to operate! He inspired me to be a good team person and to motivate others.
I really like the working culture in London as it’s very professional. You have access to the resources you need and there’s a recognition that teaching and training is important.
How did you get involved in the trip to Gaza?
Through the Med Global Charity and PAMA (Palestine American Medical Association), which provides medical aid and expertise to those in conflict and crisis.
How will you be helping in Gaza?
I will be there for around 10 days and during that time along with a team of 20 doctors from USA. I will be performing surgery on general surgical and colorectal cases. I will deal with complex operations and will also be able to teach and train people. This will ensure sustainability so that we leave a legacy behind.
I feel very connected to that.
What attracted you to working in Gaza?
I have always wanted to do something like this. It is a cause close to my heart as I believe that there should not be any global disparity in healthcare.
`Vasudhaiva Kutumbkam`, Sanskrit phrase - the world is one family!
Arti Garg
Locum surgical consultant in general and emergency surgery